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EP1278633B1 - Imagerie lithographique au moyen d'elements d'impression pourvus de couches a phase multiple repondant au laser - Google Patents

Imagerie lithographique au moyen d'elements d'impression pourvus de couches a phase multiple repondant au laser Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1278633B1
EP1278633B1 EP02721185A EP02721185A EP1278633B1 EP 1278633 B1 EP1278633 B1 EP 1278633B1 EP 02721185 A EP02721185 A EP 02721185A EP 02721185 A EP02721185 A EP 02721185A EP 1278633 B1 EP1278633 B1 EP 1278633B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
layer
substrate
multiphase
rich phase
polymer
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EP02721185A
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German (de)
English (en)
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EP1278633A1 (fr
Inventor
Gerald P. Harwood, Jr.
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Presstek LLC
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Presstek LLC
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41N—PRINTING PLATES OR FOILS; MATERIALS FOR SURFACES USED IN PRINTING MACHINES FOR PRINTING, INKING, DAMPING, OR THE LIKE; PREPARING SUCH SURFACES FOR USE AND CONSERVING THEM
    • B41N1/00—Printing plates or foils; Materials therefor
    • B41N1/04—Printing plates or foils; Materials therefor metallic
    • B41N1/08—Printing plates or foils; Materials therefor metallic for lithographic printing
    • B41N1/083—Printing plates or foils; Materials therefor metallic for lithographic printing made of aluminium or aluminium alloys or having such surface layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C1/00—Forme preparation
    • B41C1/10—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme
    • B41C1/1008—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme by removal or destruction of lithographic material on the lithographic support, e.g. by laser or spark ablation; by the use of materials rendered soluble or insoluble by heat exposure, e.g. by heat produced from a light to heat transforming system; by on-the-press exposure or on-the-press development, e.g. by the fountain of photolithographic materials
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C1/00—Forme preparation
    • B41C1/10—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme
    • B41C1/1008—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme by removal or destruction of lithographic material on the lithographic support, e.g. by laser or spark ablation; by the use of materials rendered soluble or insoluble by heat exposure, e.g. by heat produced from a light to heat transforming system; by on-the-press exposure or on-the-press development, e.g. by the fountain of photolithographic materials
    • B41C1/1033—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme by removal or destruction of lithographic material on the lithographic support, e.g. by laser or spark ablation; by the use of materials rendered soluble or insoluble by heat exposure, e.g. by heat produced from a light to heat transforming system; by on-the-press exposure or on-the-press development, e.g. by the fountain of photolithographic materials by laser or spark ablation
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C1/00—Forme preparation
    • B41C1/10—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme
    • B41C1/1008—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme by removal or destruction of lithographic material on the lithographic support, e.g. by laser or spark ablation; by the use of materials rendered soluble or insoluble by heat exposure, e.g. by heat produced from a light to heat transforming system; by on-the-press exposure or on-the-press development, e.g. by the fountain of photolithographic materials
    • B41C1/1016—Forme preparation for lithographic printing; Master sheets for transferring a lithographic image to the forme by removal or destruction of lithographic material on the lithographic support, e.g. by laser or spark ablation; by the use of materials rendered soluble or insoluble by heat exposure, e.g. by heat produced from a light to heat transforming system; by on-the-press exposure or on-the-press development, e.g. by the fountain of photolithographic materials characterised by structural details, e.g. protective layers, backcoat layers or several imaging layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C2201/00—Location, type or constituents of the non-imaging layers in lithographic printing formes
    • B41C2201/02—Cover layers; Protective layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C2201/00—Location, type or constituents of the non-imaging layers in lithographic printing formes
    • B41C2201/04—Intermediate layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C2201/00—Location, type or constituents of the non-imaging layers in lithographic printing formes
    • B41C2201/14—Location, type or constituents of the non-imaging layers in lithographic printing formes characterised by macromolecular organic compounds, e.g. binder, adhesives
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C2210/00—Preparation or type or constituents of the imaging layers, in relation to lithographic printing forme preparation
    • B41C2210/02—Positive working, i.e. the exposed (imaged) areas are removed
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C2210/00—Preparation or type or constituents of the imaging layers, in relation to lithographic printing forme preparation
    • B41C2210/20—Preparation or type or constituents of the imaging layers, in relation to lithographic printing forme preparation characterised by inorganic additives, e.g. pigments, salts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C2210/00—Preparation or type or constituents of the imaging layers, in relation to lithographic printing forme preparation
    • B41C2210/22—Preparation or type or constituents of the imaging layers, in relation to lithographic printing forme preparation characterised by organic non-macromolecular additives, e.g. dyes, UV-absorbers, plasticisers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41C—PROCESSES FOR THE MANUFACTURE OR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTING SURFACES
    • B41C2210/00—Preparation or type or constituents of the imaging layers, in relation to lithographic printing forme preparation
    • B41C2210/24—Preparation or type or constituents of the imaging layers, in relation to lithographic printing forme preparation characterised by a macromolecular compound or binder obtained by reactions involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds, e.g. acrylics, vinyl polymers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to printing members and methods, and more particularly to imaging of lithographic printing-plate constructions on- or off-press using controlled laser output.
  • a printable image is present on a printing member as a pattern of ink-accepting (oleophilic) and ink-rejecting (oleophobic) surface areas. Once applied to these areas, ink can be efficiently transferred to a recording medium in the imagewise pattern with substantial fidelity.
  • Dry printing systems utilize printing members whose ink-repellent portions are sufficiently phobic to ink as to permit its direct application. Ink applied uniformly to the printing member is transferred to the recording medium only in the imagewise pattern.
  • the printing member first makes contact with a compliant intermediate surface called a blanket cylinder which, in turn, applies the image to the paper or other recording medium.
  • the recording medium is pinned to an impression cylinder, which brings it into contact with the blanket cylinder.
  • the non-image areas are hydrophilic, and the necessary ink-repellency is provided by an initial application of a dampening fluid to the plate prior to inking.
  • the dampening fluid prevents ink from adhering to the non-image areas, but does not affect the oleophilic character of the image areas.
  • Plate-imaging devices amenable to computer control include various forms of lasers.
  • U.S. Patent No. 5,493,971 discloses wet-plate constructions that extend the benefits of ablative laser imaging technology to traditional metal-based plates. Such plates remain the standard for most of the long-run printing industry due to their durability and ease of manufacture.
  • a lithographic printing construction 100 in accordance with the '971 patent includes a grained-metal substrate 102, a protective layer 104 that can also serve as an adhesion-promoting primer, and an ablatable oleophilic surface layer 106.
  • imagewise pulses from an imaging laser (typically emitting in the near-infrared, or "IR” spectral region) interact with the surface layer 106, causing ablation thereof and, probably, inflicting some damage to the underlying protective layer 104 as well.
  • the imaged plate 100 may then be subjected to a solvent that eliminates the exposed protective layer 104, but which does no damage either to the surface layer 106 or to the unexposed protective layer 104 thereunder.
  • the laser to directly reveal only the protective layer and not the hydrophilic metal layer, the surface structure of the latter is preserved; the action of the solvent does not damage this structure.
  • This construction relies on removal of the energy-absorbing layer to create an image feature. Exposure to laser radiation may, for example, cause ablation ⁇ i.e., catastrophic overheating ⁇ of the ablated layer in order to facilitate its removal. Accordingly, the laser pulse must transfer substantial energy to the absorbing layer. This means that low-power lasers must be capable of very rapid response times, and imaging speeds (i.e., the laser pulse rate) must not be so fast as to preclude the requisite energy delivery by each imaging pulse.
  • a printing member includes a hydrophilic metal substrate 302, a topmost layer 306 that does not significantly absorb imaging radiation, and an intermediate layer 304 that does absorb imaging radiation.
  • the radiation-absorbing layer 304 comprises a radiation-absorptive material (which may be graded through the thickness of layer 304 if desired). In one version as shown in FIGS.
  • the absorbing layer 304 in response to an imaging pulse the absorbing layer 304 debonds from the surface of the adjacent metal substrate; in another version as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, an interior split is formed within the absorbing layer, facilitating removal of the portion of that layer above the split. In neither case does the absorbing layer undergo substantial ablation. Remnants of the absorbing layer and the overlying layer (or layers) are readily removed by post-imaging cleaning to produce a finished printing plate.
  • EP 0862998 discloses a heat sensitive imaging element and a method for producing lithographic plates which incorporates a lithographic plate, a heat ablatable recording layer and top layer.
  • a similar arrangement is disclosed in EP 1088653, which is prior art according to Article 54(3) EPC, and in which a two-layer heat mode imaging element includes a substrate, a hydrophilic layer, an infrared-absorbing layer and, optionally, an ink-accepting surface layer.
  • a two-layer heat mode imaging element includes a substrate, a hydrophilic layer, an infrared-absorbing layer and, optionally, an ink-accepting surface layer.
  • the cost of manufacturing a printing plate is generally a function of the number of plate layers. Because each layer is individually applied in a separate process step, elimination of a layer can materially reduce overall production costs. In accordance with the present invention, the functions performed by layers 304 and 306 are combined into a single layer.
  • the present invention provides a printing member having a single radiation-absorptive multiphase layer over a substrate layer that may be imaged with or without ablation.
  • the multiphase layer is be in contact with the substrate layer along an interface.
  • the multiphase layer comprises a polymer-rich phase and an inorganic-rich phase dispersed within the polymer-rich phase.
  • the printing member is subjected to imaging radiation in an imagewise pattern. The radiation removes or facilitates removal of at least a portion of the multiphase layer but does not affect the substrate.
  • a cleaning step may be used to remove remnants of the portion of the multiphase layer, thereby creating an imagewise lithographic pattern on the printing member.
  • the printing member may now be used for printing.
  • a printing member in accordance with the invention comprises a multiphase layer and a substrate.
  • the substrate is a metal substrate. Suitable metal substrates include, but are not limited to, aluminum, copper, steel, and chromium. In a preferred embodiment, the metal substrate is grained, anodized, and/or silicated. For example, the substrate may be lithographic aluminum.
  • the substrate is a polymer substrate. Suitable polymer substrates include, but are not limited to, polyesters, polycarbonates, and polystyrene. In a preferred embodiment, the substrate is a polyester film, and preferably a polyethylene terephthalate film. In still another embodiment, the substrate is a paper substrate.
  • the multiphase layer comprises a polymer-rich phase and an inorganic-rich phase.
  • suitable materials for the polymer-rich phase include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl alcohols, copolymers of polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone and its copolymers, and polyvinylether and copolymers thereof.
  • the polymer is a polyvinyl alcohol.
  • the inorganic-rich phase contains one or more inorganic oxides, typically formed as a reaction product of an initially soluble complex.
  • Such inorganic oxides may include, for example, zirconium oxide (typically ZrO 2 ), aluminum oxide (typically Al 2 O 3 ), silicon dioxide and titanium oxide (typically TiO 2 ), as well as combinations and complexes thereof. It should also be noted that these oxides may exist in hydrated form.
  • the inorganic-rich phase comprises "nodules" rich in zirconium oxide. Preferably, the nodules are dispersed within the polymer-rich phase.
  • the inorganic-rich phase further comprises an inorganic-rich interfacial layer at the interface of the multiphase layer with the metal substrate.
  • the interfacial layer comprises zirconium oxide, and may have a thickness of 1 nm or less.
  • the multiphase layer comprises a material that absorbs imaging radiation.
  • the absorptive material renders the multiphase layer subject to ablative absorption of imaging radiation.
  • the imaging mechanism is ablative in nature, whereby at least a portion of the multiphase layer is destroyed by the laser pulse.
  • laser radiation may remove or facilitate removal of a portion of the multiphase layer above the inorganic-rich interfacial layer.
  • laser radiation may remove or facilitate removal the entire multiphase layer.
  • the imaging mechanism is non-ablative in nature.
  • the laser pulse may merely debond a portion of the multiphase layer from the inorganic-rich interfacial layer.
  • the laser radiation may debond the entire multiphase layer from the substrate without substantially ablating the layer.
  • the debonded material may then be removed by post-imaging cleaning (see, e.g., U.S. Patent Nos. 5,540,150; 5,870,954; 5,755,158; and 5,148,746).
  • the polymer-rich phase of the multiphase layer has a different affinity at least from the substrate for a printing liquid such as an ink or an ink-rejecting fluid.
  • the substrate is a hydrophilic metal substrate, while the polymer-rich phase is oleophilic.
  • the inherently ink-receptive areas receive laser output and are ultimately removed, revealing the hydrophilic surface that will reject ink during printing.
  • the "image area” is selectively removed to reveal the "background.”
  • Such printing members are also referred to as "positive-working" or "indirect-write.”
  • a portion of the multiphase layer is removed, leaving the exposed surface of the inorganic-rich interfacial layer to serve as the hydrophilic surface.
  • the interfacial layer may be removed either during cleaning or use of the member in printing, exposing the underlying hydrophilic metal substrate.
  • the substrate is oleophilic, while the polymer-rich phase is hydrophilic.
  • This configuration results in a "negative-working" or “direct-write” printing member.
  • the entire multiphase layer is removed, exposing the oleophilic polymer substrate.
  • the unexposed hydrophilic surface remains receptive to ink-rejecting fluids.
  • the term "plate” or "member” refers to any type of printing member or surface capable of recording an image defined by regions exhibiting differential affinities for ink and/or an ink abhesive fluid. Suitable configurations include the traditional planar or curved lithographic plates that are mounted on the plate cylinder of a printing press, but can also include seamless cylinders (e.g., the roll surface of a plate cylinder), an endless belt, or other arrangement.
  • hydrophilic is used in the printing sense to connote a surface affinity for a fluid which prevents ink from adhering thereto.
  • fluids include water for conventional ink systems, aqueous and non-aqueous dampening liquids, and the non-ink phase of single-fluid ink systems.
  • a hydrophilic surface in accordance herewith exhibits preferential affinity for any of these materials relative to oil-based materials.
  • a representative embodiment of a lithographic printing member in accordance herewith includes a metal substrate layer 401, and a radiation-absorptive multiphase layer 404.
  • FIG. 4B illustrates an alternative embodiment that includes a polymer substrate 402 and a radiation-absorptive multiphase layer 404.
  • the multiphase layer 404 comprises a polymer-rich phase 406 and an inorganic-rich phase including 408 and 410.
  • the multiphase layer 404 comprises an inorganic-rich interfacial layer 410 at the interface with the metal substrate.
  • substrate 401, 402 The primary functions of substrate 401, 402 are to serve as a dimensionally stable mechanical support, and to provide different affinity characteristics for ink and/or a fluid to which ink will not adhere.
  • Suitable metals for substrate 401 include, but are not limited to, aluminum, copper, steel, and chromium. Preferred thicknesses range from 0.01016 - 0.0508 cm (0.004 to 0.02 inch) with thicknesses in the range 0.0127 - 0.0305 cm (0.005 to 0.012 inch) being particularly preferred.
  • a metal substrate 401 preferably has a hydrophilic surface to facilitate coating of the multiphase layer 404 and lithographic printing process.
  • a hydrophilic metal surface may promote adhesion to an overlying multiphase layer.
  • a hydrophilic metal surface may promote formation of (and adhesion to) an inorganic-rich interfacial layer 410 within the multiphase layer 404 as described below.
  • such a surface may accept an ink-rejecting fluid if overlying interfacial layer 410 is removed during imaging and/or post-imaging cleaning process; or damaged (e.g., by scratching) or wears away during the printing process.
  • metal layers need to undergo special treatment in order to be capable of accepting ink-rejecting fluids in a printing environment.
  • Any number of chemical or electrical techniques in some cases assisted by the use of fine abrasives to roughen the surface, may be employed for this purpose.
  • electrograining involves immersion of two opposed aluminum plates (or one plate and a suitable counterelectrode) in an electrolytic cell and passing alternating current between them. The result of this process is a finely pitted surface topography that readily adsorbs water. Electrograining treatment processes are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,087,341.
  • a structured or grained surface can also be produced by controlled oxidation, a process commonly called "anodizing.”
  • an anodized aluminum substrate comprises an unmodified base layer and a porous, "anodic" aluminum oxide coating thereover; this coating readily accepts water.
  • the oxide coating can lose wettability due to further chemical reaction.
  • Anodized plates are, therefore, typically exposed to a silicate solution or other suitable (e.g., phosphate) reagent that stabilizes the hydrophilic character of the plate surface.
  • silicate treatment for example, the surface may assume the properties of a molecular sieve with a high affinity for molecules of a definite size and shape ⁇ including, most importantly, water molecules.
  • Anodizing and silicate treatment processes are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,181,461 and 3,902,976.
  • the substrate is a polymer substrate 402, preferably having an oleophilic (and possibly also hydrophilic) surface.
  • the oleophilic polymer substrate surface is exposed after imaging radiation and post-imaging cleaning to provide an ink-receptive surface to support lithographic printing.
  • Preferred thicknesses for such substrates range from 0.0076 - 0.0508 cm (0.003 to 0.02 inch), with thicknesses in the range of 0.0127 - 0.0381 cm (0.005 to 0.015 inch) being particularly preferred.
  • a wide variety of polymers may be utilized for substrate 402.
  • papers have been treated (or saturated with a polymeric material) to improve dimensional stability, water resistance, and strength during the wet lithographic printing.
  • suitable polymeric materials include, but are not limited to, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthenate, polycarbonates, and polysulfones.
  • a preferred polymeric substrate comprises polyethylene terphthalate film, such as, for example, the polyester films available under the trademarks of MYLAR and MELINEX polyester films from DuPont Teijin Films, Wilmington, DE.
  • the multiphase layer 404 serves two primary functions, namely, absorption of IR radiation and interaction with ink or an ink-rejecting fluid.
  • an ink-rejecting fluid include water for conventional ink systems, aqueous and non-aqueous dampening liquids, and the non-ink phase of single-fluid ink systems.
  • a multiphase layer 404 comprises a polymer-rich phase 406 and an inorganic-rich phase including 408 and 410.
  • the inorganic-rich phase comprises inorganic-rich nodules 408 that are dispersed in the polymer-rich phase 406.
  • the inorganic-rich phase may further comprise an interfacial layer 410 at the interface with the metal substrate.
  • This layer 410 may serve as insulating function, preventing imaging energy from dissipating into the underlying metal substrate.
  • the polymer-rich phase 406 is the cured product of a polymer and a crosslinking agent.
  • Suitable polymers include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl alcohol or copolymers thereof.
  • the polymer is polyvinyl alcohol, such as, for example, polyvinyl alcohol available under the trademarks of AIRVOL 325 from Air Products, Allentown, PA; and of ESPRIX R-1130 from Esprix Chemical Co.
  • Other suitable polymers include copolymers of polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and copolymers thereof, and polyvinylether (PVE) and its copolymers, including polyvinylether/maleic anhydride versions.
  • Suitable crosslinking agents include, but are not limited to, zirconium compounds, zinc carbonate, and the like.
  • the crosslinking agent is ammonium zirconyl carbonate, such as, for example, BACOTE 20, which is an ammonium zirconyl carbonate solution available from Magnesium Elektron, Flemington, NJ., with a weight equivalent of 14% zirconium oxide (ZrO 2 ).
  • the inorganic crosslinking agents may also serve as the inorganic-rich phase.
  • the inorganic-rich phase comprises nodules rich in ZrO 2 , which may be dispersed in the polymer-rich phase.
  • the inorganic-rich phase may further comprise an inorganic-rich interfacial layer 410 at the interface with the metal substrate.
  • the interfacial layer 410 may comprise ZrO 2 .
  • this ZrO 2 -rich interfacial layer has a thickness of 1 nm or less. Without being bound to any particular theory or mechanism, this ZrO 2 rich interfacial layer may result from reaction of the zirconium complex promoted by the anodic layer on the aluminum, the silicate treatment of this layer, or a combination of both.
  • the amount of zirconium compound, such as BACOTE 20, utilized in the formulation may be important for formation of the multiphase layer.
  • the optimal amount of BACOTE 20 appears to depend on substrates. For example, on a metal substrate, typical amounts of BACOTE 20 utilized in the formulation are 20 ⁇ 5 wt% based on the weight of the dried and cured coating; on a polymer substrate, typical amounts of BACOTE 20 utilized in the formulation are 25 ⁇ 5 wt% based on the weight of the dried and cured coating.
  • components and suitable additives may be included in the formulations for the multiphase layer 404 to facilitate coating, curing, or imaging processes.
  • Such components include, but are not limited to, NACURE 2530, a trademark for an amine-blocked organic sulfonic acid catalyst available from King Industries, Norwalk, CT; CYMEL 303, a trademark for melamine crosslinking agents available from Cytec Corporation, Wayne, NJ.
  • Suitable additives include, but are not limited to, glycerol, available from Aldrich Chemical, Milwaukee, WS; and TRITON X-100, a trademark for a surfactant available from Rohm & Haas, Philadelphia, PA.; pentaerythritol; glycols such as ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, trimethylene diglycol, and propylene glycol; citric acid, glycerophosphoric acid; sorbitol; and gluconic acid.
  • the multiphase layer 404 further comprises an imaging radiation-absorbing material.
  • suitable absorbers include a wide range of dyes and pigments, such as carbon black; nigrosine-based dyes; phthalocyanines (e.g., aluminum phthalocyanine chloride, titanium oxide phthalocyanine, vanadium (IV) oxide phthalocyanine, and the soluble phthalocyanines supplied by Aldrich Chemical Co., Milwaukee, Wl); naphthalocyanines ( see, e.g., U.S. Patent Nos.
  • Suitable radiation-absorptive materials provide adequate sensitivity to imaging radiation without substantially affecting formation of the inorganic-rich phase and adhesion between the multiphase layer and the substrate.
  • surface-modified carbon-black pigments sold under the trademark CAB-O-JET 200 by Cabot Corporation, Bedford, MA are found to minimally disrupt adhesion at loading levels providing adequate sensitivity for heating.
  • Another preferred absorptive material is sold under the trademark BONJET BLACK CW-1, a surface-modified carbon-black aqueous dispersion available from Orient Corporation, Springfield, NJ.
  • absorbers for the multiphase layer 404 include conductive polymers, e.g., polyanilines, polypyrroles, poly-3,4-ethylenedioxypyrroles, polythiophenes, and poly-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophenes. These can be utilized alone or as copolymers or in polymer mixtures to form layer 404.
  • conductive polymers e.g., polyanilines, polypyrroles, poly-3,4-ethylenedioxypyrroles, polythiophenes, and poly-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophenes.
  • the catalyst for polymerization conveniently provides the "dopant" that establishes conductivity.
  • Multiphase layer 404 may be applied by known mixing and coating methods.
  • a coating mix may be prepared as two separate fluids that are subsequently mixed together at a certain ratio just prior to the coating application (see Examples 1 and 2 below).
  • a coating mix may be prepared as a single fluid by mixing all the necessary components (see Examples 3, 4, 5, and 6 below).
  • the multiphase layer 404 is typically coated at a coating weight in the range of from about 0.5 g/m 2 to 5.0 g/m 2 and more preferably in the range of from about 1.5 g/m 2 to 2.0 g/m 2 based on the dried and cured coating.
  • the lower end of the range is typically more suitable for metal substrates and the higher end of the range is more suitable for polymer substrates.
  • the coating mix or dispersion may be applied by any suitable method of coating application, such as, for example, wire-wound rod coating, reverse-roll coating, gravure coating, or slot-die coating.
  • the coating mix is applied using wire wound rods chosen to give the above weights.
  • Optimum wire size may vary based on the viscosity and solids of the coating mix. The selection process is routine to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
  • the multiphase layer is dried and cured.
  • the layer may be dried and cured in a BlueM convection oven that provides controlled temperature and sufficient air circulation.
  • the drying rate may be important for formation of the multiphase layer 404.
  • Imaging apparatus suitable for use in conjunction with the present printing members includes at least one laser device that emits in the region of maximum plate responsiveness, i.e., whose ⁇ max closely approximates the wavelength region where the plate absorbs most strongly.
  • lasers that emit in the near-IR region are fully described in U.S. Patent Nos. Re. 35,512 and 5,385,092 (the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference); lasers emitting in other regions of the electromagnetic spectrum are well-known to those skilled in the art.
  • laser output can be provided directly to the plate surface via lenses or other beam-guiding components, or transmitted to the surface of a blank printing plate from a remotely sited laser using a fiber-optic cable.
  • a controller and associated positioning hardware maintain the beam output at a precise orientation with respect to the plate surface, scan the output over the surface, and activate the laser at positions adjacent selected points or areas of the plate.
  • the controller responds to incoming image signals corresponding to the original document or picture being copied onto the plate to produce a precise negative or positive image of that original.
  • the image signals are stored as a bitmap data file on a computer. Such files may be generated by a raster image processor ("RIP") or other suitable means.
  • RIP raster image processor
  • a RIP can accept input data in page-description language, which defines all of the features required to be transferred onto the printing plate, or as a combination of page-description language and one or more image data files.
  • the bitmaps are constructed to define the hue of the color as well as screen frequencies and angles.
  • imaging systems such as those involving light valving and similar arrangements, can also be employed; see, e.g. , U.S. Patent Nos. 4,577,932; 5,517,359; 5,802,034; and 5,861,992, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
  • image spots may be applied in an adjacent or in an overlapping fashion.
  • the imaging apparatus can operate on its own, functioning solely as a platemaker, or can be incorporated directly into a lithographic printing press. In the latter case, printing may commence immediately after application of the image to a blank plate, thereby reducing press set-up time considerably.
  • the imaging apparatus can be configured as a flatbed recorder or as a drum recorder, with the lithographic plate blank mounted to the interior or exterior cylindrical surface of the drum.
  • the exterior drum design is more appropriate to use in situ , on a lithographic press, in which case the print cylinder itself constitutes the drum component of the recorder or plotter.
  • the requisite relative motion between the laser beam and the plate is achieved by rotating the drum (and the plate mounted thereon) about its axis and moving the beam parallel to the rotation axis, thereby scanning the plate circumferentially so the image "grows" in the axial direction.
  • the beam can move parallel to the drum axis and, after each pass across the plate, increment angularly so that the image on the plate "grows" circumferentially. In both cases, after a complete scan by the beam, an image corresponding (positively or negatively) to the original document or picture will have been applied to the surface of the plate.
  • the beam is drawn across either axis of the plate, and is indexed along the other axis after each pass.
  • the requisite relative motion between the beam and the plate may be produced by movement of the plate rather than (or in addition to) movement of the beam.
  • an array-type system it is generally preferable (for on-press applications) to employ a plurality of lasers and guide their outputs to a single writing array.
  • the writing array is then indexed, after completion of each pass across or along the plate, a distance determined by the number of beams emanating from the array, and by the desired resolution (i.e., the number of image points per unit length).
  • Off-press applications which can be designed to accommodate very rapid scanning (e.g., through use of high-speed motors, mirrors, etc.) and thereby utilize high laser pulse rates, can frequently utilize a single laser as an imaging source.
  • a lithographic printing member of the present invention is selectively exposed, in a pattern representing an image, to the output of an imaging laser which is scanned over the member.
  • the imaging mechanism may be ablative in nature, whereby at least a portion of the multiphase layer 404 is substantially destroyed by the laser pulse, thereby directly producing on the printing member an array of image features or potential image features.
  • the imaged printing member may be cleaned with water or cleaning solutions to remove remaining debris.
  • the substrate is a hydrophilic metal substrate 401 as shown in FIGS.
  • the portion of the multiphase layer above the inorganic-rich interfacial layer 410 is ablated, leaving the exposed surface of the interfacial layer 410 to serve as the hydrophilic surface.
  • the interfacial layer 410 may also be removed during imaging or post-imaging processes, exposing the underlying hydrophilic metal layer 401.
  • the entire multiphase layer 404 may be ablated. However, enough heat is retained within the multiphase layer 404 to avoid damaging substrate 402, which is exposed to serve as the ink-receptive surface.
  • the imaging mechanism may be non-ablative.
  • an imaging pulse may merely debond the portion of the multiphase layer above the interfacial layer 410 from the interfacial layer 410 without substantially ablating the multiphase layer as shown in FIG. 6A. Remnants of the portion of the multiphase layer above the interfacial layer 410 are readily removed by a post-imaging cleaning process, exposing the hydrophilic interfacial layer 410. Alternatively, the entire multiphase layer 404 including the interfacial layer 410 may be removed during post-imaging cleaning, exposing the hydrophilic metal substrate.
  • an imaging pulse may debond the entire multiphase layer 404 from the substrate 402 without substantially ablating the multphase layer as shown in FIG. 8A. Again, remnants of the multiphase layer are removed by a post-imaging process to reveal the image.
  • debonding can arise from any or a combination of various effects.
  • thermal stress between dissimilar phases can induce a split therebetween; this is especially likely where the polymer-rich phase grades sharply into the inorganic-rich interfacial layer, and where the layers exhibit substantially different imaging radiation-absorption, and/or thermal-expansion, and/or heat-response (e.g., melting point) characteristics.
  • Heating of the inorganic-rich phase can also cause partial ablation with consequent gas buildup, which lifts the polymer-rich phase and thereby de-anchors it from the substrate.
  • Printing members in accordance with the invention may be suitable for ablative or non-ablative imaging mechanisms. In either case, a sufficient amount of energy must be delivered to cause the desired behavior.
  • This is a function of parameters such as laser power, the duration of the pulse, the intrinsic absorption of the heat-sensitive multiphase layer (as determined, for example, by the concentration of absorber therein), the thickness of the multiphase layer, and the thermal conductivity of the substrate layer beneath the multiphase layer.
  • parameters are readily determined by the skilled practitioner without undue experimentation. It is possible, for example, to cause the same materials to undergo ablation or to simply become heated without damage through control of laser exposure time or power.
  • Exemplary formulations for solutions/dispersions that may be coated on a substrate to form a multiphase layer 404 are described in the following examples, which are offered by way of description and not by way of limitation.
  • the components for each example are listed in the order of addition.
  • All solutions (Sol) of the following examples are water solutions. All concentrations are based on weight.
  • the coatings provided by the following examples are dried and cured at a temperature of 350 °F for 2 minutes with sufficient air circulation.
  • a representative multiphase layer may be obtained by mixing 10 parts of the following solution B into 25 parts of solution A.
  • Component (parts by weight) Part A Water 33.0 Bonjet CW-1 10.0 5% Esprix R-1130 (5 wt% in water) 50.0 Triton X-100 1.7 Cymel 303 0.4 Cymel 385 0.1 NaCure 2530 2.8
  • Bacote 20 2.0
  • Component (parts by weight) Part B 5% Airvol 325 (5 wt% in water) 87.7 Triton X-1 00 0.7 BYK-333 1.0 Glycerol 0.2 Bacote 20 10.4 Cymel 385 0.1 NaCure 2530 2.8
  • ESPRIX R-1130 supplied by Esprix Chemical Co., is one of a family of polyvinyl alcohol-based copolymers that contain a low ( ⁇ 1 mole percent) content of a vinyl silane comonomer. These polymers are promoted for use in durable hydrophilic coatings. While this may be true in some circumstances, the coating described above is actually more hydrophobic than hydrophilic; it accepts some ink notwithstanding exposure to dampening fluid. Therefore, this example provides an oleophilic multiphase layer.
  • a formulation is prepared by mixing 2 parts of the following fluid A into 1 part fluid B (a 2:1 blend).
  • Component (parts by weight) Part A Water 47.05 Bonjet CW-1 10.0 BYK 333 0.5 BYK 348 0.75 Airvol 325 (5 wt% in water) 37.0 Witco 240 2.6 Cymel 373 1.1 Nacure 2530 1.0
  • Component (parts by weight) Part B Airvol 325 (5 wt% in water) 85.63 Glycerol 0.17 Triton X-100 0.7 BYK 333 1.0 Bacote 20 (50 wt% in water) 12.5
  • a formulation is prepared as a single fluid as follows. Component (parts by weight)
  • Example 3 Water 8.36 Bonjet CW-1 2.85 Triton X-100 (10 wt% in water) 1.00 BYK 333 (10 wt% in water) 0.71 Glycerol 0.14 Airvol 325 (5 wt% in water) 76.94 Cymel 303 0.11 Cymel 385 0.03 Nacure 2530 1.9 Bacote 20 (50 wt% in water) 7.96
  • This example provides a multiphase layer that images with laser exposures of 300 - 600 mJ/cm 2 typical of ablation imaging.
  • Example 5 Water 59.77 Bonjet CW-1 3.25 BYK 333 (10 wt% in water) 0.5 Triton X-100 (10 wt% in water) 0.3 Esprix R-1130 (5 wt% in water) 30.0 Bacote 20 (50 wt% in water) 6.18 Component (parts by weight) Example 6 Water 47.17 Bonjet CW-1 3.25 BYK 333 (10 wt% in water) 0.5 Triton X-100 (10 wt% in water) 0.3 Airvol 325 (5 wt% in water) 42.6 Bacote 20 (50 wt% in water) 6.18
  • Examples 5 and 6 each provide a hydrophilic multiphase layer that may be coated over an oleophilic polymer substrate, such as, for example, a 7 mil polyester film provided by Dupont Teijin Melinex 991.
  • the exposed substrate surface after post-imaging cleaning is oleophilic or ink-receptive, while unexposed areas remain receptive to an ink-rejecting fluid. Therefore, Examples 5 and 6 provide lithographic printing members that are "negative-working.” Furthermore, the printing members are suitable for both ablative and non-ablative imaging mechanisms.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Printing Plates And Materials Therefor (AREA)
  • Manufacture Or Reproduction Of Printing Formes (AREA)

Claims (21)

  1. Procédé d'imagerie d'un élément d'impression lithographique, le procédé comprenant les étapes de:
    a. fourniture d'un élément d'impression comprenant une couche de substrat et une couche multiphase en contact avec le substrat le long d'une interface, la couche multiphase présentant une phase riche en polymères et une phase riche en matériaux inorganiques, la phase riche en polymères présentant une affinité différente au moins par rapport à la couche de substrat pour un liquide d'impression;
    b. exposition selon un motif suivant l'image de l'élément d'impression à un rayonnement d'imagerie de manière à enlever au moins une partie de la couche multiphase ou à faciliter son enlèvement; et
    c. enlèvement de restes de la couche multiphase, d'où ainsi la création d'un motif lithographique suivant l'image sur l'élément d'impression.
  2. Elément d'impression lithographique comprenant une couche de substrat et une couche multiphase en contact avec le substrat le long d'une interface, la couche multiphase présentant une phase riche en polymères et une phase riche en matériaux inorganiques, dans lequel:
    (i) la phase riche en polymères présente une affinité différente au moins par rapport au substrat pour un liquide d'impression; et
    (ii) la couche inultiphase est caractérisée par l'absorption d'un rayonnement imageur, ce qui facilite l'enlèvement d'au moins une partie de la couche multiphase.
  3. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou élément selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le substrat est un substrat en métal hydrophile.
  4. Procédé ou élément selon la revendication 3, dans lequel la phase riche en matériaux inorganiques comprend des nodules qui sont dispersés à l'intérieur de la phase riche en polymères et une couche interfaciale au niveau de l'interface de la couche multiphase avec le substrat.
  5. Procédé ou élément selon la revendication 4, dans lequel le substrat en métal est en aluminium lithographique.
  6. Procédé ou élément selon la revendication 4, dans lequel la couche interfaciale présente une épaisseur non supérieure à 1 nanomètre.
  7. Procédé selon la revendication 4, dans lequel la couche interfaciale subsiste au-dessus du substrat après les étapes d'exposition et d'enlèvement, ce qui fait qu'elle joue le rôle de surface hydrophile.
  8. Procédé selon la revendication 4, dans lequel la couche interfaciale est enlevée afin de révéler le substrat en métal.
  9. Procédé selon la revendication 4, dans lequel au moins une partie de la couche multiphase se délie sans ablation substantielle de la couche interfaciale après exposition à un rayonnement imageur.
  10. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou élément selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le substrat est un substrat en polymère oléophyle.
  11. Procédé selon la revendication 10, dans lequel la couche multiphase se délie sans ablation substantielle du substrat après exposition à un rayonnement imageur.
  12. Elément selon la revendication 4, dans lequel la couche interfaciale résiste à l'enlèvement, ce qui fait qu'elle joue le rôle de surface hydrophile.
  13. Elément selon la revendication 4, dans lequel la couche interfaciale est soumise à un enlèvement au moyen d'un nettoyage de post-imagerie.
  14. Procédé ou élément selon la revendication 10, dans lequel la phase riche en matériaux inorganiques comprend des nodules qui sont dispersés à l'intérieur de la phase riche en polymères.
  15. Procédé ou élément selon la revendication 14, dans lequel le substrat en polymère est en polyester.
  16. Procédé ou élément selon la revendication 2, dans lequel la phase riche en polymères comprend un alcool polyvinylique.
  17. Procédé selon la revendication 1, la revendication 3 ou la revendication 9 ou élément selon la revendication 2, la revendication 4 ou la revendication 14, dans lequel la phase riche en matériaux inorganiques comprend de l'oxyde de zirconium.
  18. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou élément selon la revendication 2, dans lequel la couche multiphase comprend un matériau qui absorbe un rayonnement imageur.
  19. Procédé ou élément selon la revendication 18, dans lequel le matériau a pour effet que la couche multiphase est susceptible d'une absorption par ablation d'un rayonnement imageur.
  20. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou élément selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le liquide d'impression est une encre.
  21. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou élément selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le liquide d'impression est un fluide rejetant l'encre.
EP02721185A 2001-03-01 2002-02-27 Imagerie lithographique au moyen d'elements d'impression pourvus de couches a phase multiple repondant au laser Expired - Lifetime EP1278633B1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

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US27260901P 2001-03-01 2001-03-01
US272609P 2001-03-01
PCT/US2002/005957 WO2002070258A1 (fr) 2001-03-01 2002-02-27 Imagerie lithographique au moyen d'elements d'impression pourvus de couches a phase multiple repondant au laser

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EP1278633A1 EP1278633A1 (fr) 2003-01-29
EP1278633B1 true EP1278633B1 (fr) 2005-06-15

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US (1) US6684785B2 (fr)
EP (1) EP1278633B1 (fr)
JP (1) JP4129181B2 (fr)
CN (1) CN1273291C (fr)
AU (1) AU2002252128B2 (fr)
CA (1) CA2407773C (fr)
DE (1) DE60204634T2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2002070258A1 (fr)

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WO2005097502A1 (fr) * 2004-03-26 2005-10-20 Presstek, Inc. Elements d'impression possedant des couches de transition de solubilite et procedes associes

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Publication number Publication date
AU2002252128B2 (en) 2004-09-23
DE60204634D1 (de) 2005-07-21
WO2002070258A1 (fr) 2002-09-12
JP4129181B2 (ja) 2008-08-06
DE60204634T2 (de) 2006-05-11
CA2407773A1 (fr) 2002-09-12
EP1278633A1 (fr) 2003-01-29
CN1273291C (zh) 2006-09-06
JP2004519355A (ja) 2004-07-02
CA2407773C (fr) 2007-05-22
US20020162469A1 (en) 2002-11-07
CN1462239A (zh) 2003-12-17
US6684785B2 (en) 2004-02-03

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